A composition with balanced cortisol, balanced stress and anti-inflammatory soothing and uses thereof

Abstract

The application discloses a composition with the effects of balancing cortisol, balancing pressure and soothing and application thereof, and belongs to the technical field of functional skin care products. The composition is prepared by compounding paeonia root extract, gardenia fruit extract, mint extract, albizzia lebbeck seed extract, anemarrhena asphodeloides root extract, ginkgo leaf extract and dipeptide-1 in specific mass fractions. The components in the composition have a synergistic effect, can intervene in the excessive activation of the HPA axis from the upstream, balance the cortisol level from the root cause, relieve chronic stress, can significantly reduce the symptoms of skin sensitivity and the level of inflammatory factors, effectively inhibit the inflammatory response and soothe the skin sensitivity. The application solves the technical defects of the prior art that the existing products only have the effect of surface soothing and cannot block the continuous influence of stress on the skin, and provides a solution that takes both the symptoms and the root cause into consideration for the stress-related skin problems.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the technical field of functional skin care products, specifically relating to a composition that balances cortisol, balances stress, and has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, and its application. Background Technology

[0002] In modern society, chronic stress has become a widespread health challenge. High-pressure workplaces, due to prolonged sitting, long hours, and constant mental tension, often experience stiff neck, shoulder, and back muscles, as well as anxiety. Their minds and bodies are chronically in a "fight or flight" stress state, leading to persistent activation of the HPA axis and cortisol rhythm disorders. Those suffering from chronic pain endure the dual burden of physical pain and low mood, exacerbating the imbalance in the stress system and creating a vicious cycle of "pain-stress-inflammation." Furthermore, exhausted caregivers (such as new mothers and long-term caregivers) often face autonomic nervous system dysfunction and emotional exhaustion under the dual pressure of physical strain and mental burden. As a distal target organ of the stress response, the skin often shows signs of sensitivity, increased inflammation, and accelerated aging first—not just cosmetic issues, but early external signals of overall health imbalance.

[0003] Studies have shown that abnormally elevated cortisol levels caused by stress directly damage the skin barrier function: leading to dry skin, transepidermal water loss, inhibition of collagen synthesis, and accelerated matrix degradation, resulting in thinner skin, decreased elasticity, and premature appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. However, current products targeting stress-related skin problems are mostly limited to surface anti-inflammatory soothing or moisturizing repair, only relieving symptoms and failing to intervene in the core upstream mechanism of HPA axis overactivation, thus failing to block the continued negative impact of stress on skin health. The market urgently needs a fundamental solution that can connect the entire pathway of "stress perception (central nervous system) - neuroendocrine response (cortisol) - immune inflammation spread (peripheral) - clinical skin manifestations". Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art, the purpose of this invention is to provide a multi-component synergistic composition that can not only balance cortisol and regulate chronic stress-related neuroendocrine disorders, but also exert anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, thereby achieving full-pathway intervention from the central nervous system to the peripheral system and the skin.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention discloses the following technical solutions: In a first aspect, the present invention provides a composition having the effects of balancing cortisol, balancing stress, and anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, the composition comprising: peony root extract, gardenia fruit extract, peppermint extract, edamame seed extract, anemarrhena root extract, ginkgo leaf extract, and dipeptide-1.

[0006] Preferably, the composition contains the following components in parts by weight: 20-30 parts of peony root extract, 7-9 parts of gardenia fruit extract, 4-8 parts of peppermint extract, 1-2 parts of edamame seed extract, 3-7 parts of anemarrhena root extract, 12-20 parts of ginkgo leaf extract, and 0.02-0.05 parts of dipeptide-1.

[0007] In a second aspect, the present invention provides the use of the composition described in the first aspect in the preparation of products that balance cortisol, balance stress, and / or provide anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.

[0008] Preferably, the product is a skin care product; the skin care product is at least one of cream, ointment, liquid, lotion, lotion, and mask.

[0009] More preferably, the skin care product is at least one of serum, cream, lotion, and spray.

[0010] Thirdly, the present invention provides a cream that balances cortisol, balances stress, and has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, characterized in that the cream contains the composition according to claim 1 or 2.

[0011] Preferably, the amount of the composition added to the cream is 0.5%-5wt%.

[0012] Preferably, the cream further contains at least one of the following: a moisturizer, a thickener, an emulsifier, a preservative, a base oil, a stabilizer, an antioxidant, and a solvent.

[0013] More preferably, the moisturizer is at least one selected from glycerin, allantoin, 1,2-hexanediol, and butylene glycol; The thickener is at least one of hydroxyethyl cellulose, xanthan gum, carbomer, aloe vera gel, and sodium alginate. The emulsifier is at least one of cetearyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol polyether-20; The preservative is at least one of phenoxyethanol, 1,2-hexanediol, and p-hydroxyacetophenone; The base oil is at least one of grapeseed oil, squalane, jojoba seed oil, macadamia seed oil, and camellia seed oil; The stabilizer is sodium chloride; The antioxidant is at least one of vitamin C, vitamin E, and panthenol; The solvent is deionized water.

[0014] Fourthly, the present invention provides a method for preparing a skin-retaining cream that balances cortisol, balances stress, and has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, the method comprising the following steps: Step 1: Place grape seed oil, vitamin E, cetearyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol polyether-20 in a container, heat in a water bath to 75-80℃, and stir and mix evenly at 200-300r / min to obtain mixture A; Step 2: Place deionized water, glycerin, allantoin, and hydroxyethyl cellulose in another container, heat in a water bath to 75-80℃, and stir until homogeneous at 200-300 r / min to obtain mixture B; Step 3: Add mixture A to mixture B and homogenize and disperse at 3000-5000 r / min for 13-15 min to obtain a cream; Step 4: Cool the cream to 40-45°C, add p-hydroxyacetophenone and the composition according to claim 1 or 2 in sequence, stir evenly, add pH adjuster to adjust the pH value to 6-7, cool to room temperature, filter, discharge and fill to obtain the skin-retaining cream.

[0015] The beneficial effects of this invention are: This invention combines extracts such as peony root extract, gardenia fruit extract, peppermint extract, edamame seed extract, anemarrhena root extract, and ginkgo leaf extract in a specific ratio. This combination can intervene in the overactivation of the HPA axis, balance cortisol levels, relieve chronic stress, and address the core causes of skin problems. It can also directly inhibit the production of inflammatory factors and eliminate reactive oxygen species, achieving anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. Detailed Implementation

[0016] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments. However, the following embodiments are merely preferred embodiments of this invention and not all of them. For clarity, not all features of the actual embodiments are described.

[0017] Based on the embodiments described in the implementation plan, other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are all within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0018] I. In this invention Peony root extract: purchased from Guangzhou Jiachuang Biotechnology Co., Ltd.; Gardenia fruit extract: purchased from Guangzhou Bodeyuan Trading Co., Ltd.; Peppermint extract: purchased from Guangzhou Haishi Biotechnology Co., Ltd.; Edamame seed extract: purchased from Guangzhou Aoxue Chemical Co., Ltd.; Anemarrhena asphodeloides root extract: purchased from Aoyuan Technology Innovation and Application (Guangzhou) Co., Ltd.; Ginkgo biloba extract: purchased from Guangzhou Baihaobo Trading Co., Ltd.; Dipeptide-1: Purchased from Guangzhou Hengan Fine Chemical Co., Ltd.; All other raw materials are commercially available.

[0019] II. A composition that balances cortisol, balances stress, and provides anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. 1. Examples 1-3 The raw materials were compounded according to the mass ratio in Table 1 to obtain a composition that balances cortisol, balances stress, and has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. Table 1 Raw material mass ratio for Examples 1-3 Raw material name Example 1 Example 2 Example 3 Peony root extract 20 25 30 Gardenia fruit extract 7 8 9 Peppermint extract 4 6 8 Edamame seed extract 1 1.5 2.0 Anemarrhena asphodeloides root extract 3 5 7 Ginkgo biloba extract 12 16 20 Dipeptide-1 0.02 0.04 0.05 2. Comparative Examples 1-6 The raw materials were compounded according to the mass ratio of each raw material in Table 2 to obtain the compositions of Comparative Examples 1-6; Table 2 Raw material mass ratios for Comparative Examples 1-6 Raw material name Comparative Example 1 Comparative Example 2 Comparative Example 3 Comparative Example 4 Comparative Example 5 Comparative Example 6 Peony root extract / 25 25 25 25 25 Gardenia fruit extract 8 / 8 8 8 8 Peppermint extract 6 6 / 6 6 6 Edamame seed extract 1.5 1.5 1.5 / 1.5 1.5 Anemarrhena asphodeloides root extract 5 5 5 5 / 5 Ginkgo biloba extract 16 16 16 16 16 / Dipeptide-1 0.04 0.04 0.04 0.04 0.04 0.04 Note: " / " in the table indicates no addition.

[0020] III. Anti-inflammatory and soothing efficacy test 1. Materials and Reagents Test substances: Compositions of Examples 1-3 and Comparative Examples 1-6 (after being compounded according to the corresponding formulation, dissolved in 70% ethanol to prepare stock solutions, and diluted with aquaculture water to the target concentration during the experiment). Reagents: Disodium hydrogen phosphate, sodium dihydrogen phosphate, anhydrous ethanol, sodium chloride, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), lipopolysaccharide (LPS), tricaine, 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA), zebrafish interleukin-6 (IL-6) ELISA research kit, zebrafish tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) ELISA research kit; Aquaculture water: meets zebrafish rearing standards.

[0021] 2. Laboratory animals Wild AB-type zebrafish were kept under 14-hour light / 10-hour darkness conditions at a temperature of (28±0.5)℃. Normal-shaped, sexually mature zebrafish were selected to lay eggs at a female-to-male ratio of 1:1. Healthy embryos were collected and cultured at a constant temperature of 28℃ for later use.

[0022] 3. Determination of maximum safe concentration Well-developed zebrafish embryos were selected and randomly assigned to treatment groups, with 20 embryos in each group and 3 replicates per group. The test group was given solutions of the respective compositions at concentrations of 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 5.0 mg / mL, while the blank control group was given an equal volume of culture water. The solution was changed every 24 hours, and the embryos were observed continuously for 72 hours. The embryo mortality rate and malformation rate were recorded. The results showed that at a concentration of 1.0 mg / mL, the embryo mortality rate was ≤20% and the malformation rate was <5% within 72 hours for each composition; the mortality rate increased significantly when the concentration was ≥2.0 mg / mL, so 1.0 mg / mL was determined to be the uniform test concentration for all subsequent experiments.

[0023] 4. SDS-induced spin stimulation test in zebrafish When the fertilized eggs develop to 24 hpf, normal embryos are selected and transferred into 6-well culture plates, with 10 embryos per well and 3 replicates per group. Group setup: blank control group (only aquaculture water added), model group (0.07% SDS), positive control group (1.0 mg / mL dipotassium glycyrrhizate), test substance group (Examples 1-3 groups + Comparative Examples 1-6 groups, all with 1.0 mg / mL composition). The blank group and the model group were added to the culture water, and the positive control group and the test substance group were added to the corresponding solutions. They were pre-incubated at a constant temperature of 28℃ for 1 hour. The model group was replaced with 0.07% SDS solution, and the positive control group and test group were replaced with the corresponding solution + 0.07% SDS mixture, and incubated for another 15 min. The number of spins in zebrafish embryos within 30 seconds was observed and recorded under a stereomicroscope.

[0024] 5. LPS-induced inflammation test in zebrafish When the fertilized eggs develop to 7-8 hpf, normal embryos are selected and transferred into 24-well culture plates, with 30 embryos per well and 3 replicates per group. Group setup: blank control group (only aquaculture water added), model group (15 μg / mL LPS), positive control group (2.5 μg / mL dexamethasone), test group (Examples 1-3 + Comparative Examples 1-6, all 1.0 mg / mL composition). The blank group and the model group were added to the culture water, and the positive control group and the test substance group were added to the corresponding solutions. They were pre-incubated at a constant temperature of 28℃ for 1 hour. The model group was replaced with 15 μg / mL LPS solution, and the positive control group and test group were replaced with the corresponding solution + 15 μg / mL LPS mixture, and incubation continued until 72 hpf. The yolk sac area and the number of heartbeats in 30 seconds of zebrafish juveniles were measured under a stereomicroscope; the relative amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated was detected under a fluorescence microscope by DCFH-DA staining.

[0025] 6. ELISA method for measuring inflammatory factor levels Collect 72 hpf zebrafish juveniles, freeze at -20℃ and weigh. Add pre-cooled PBS at a weight-to-volume ratio of 1:9 and homogenize in an ice bath. Centrifuge at 2-8℃ and 5000 r / min for 5 min and collect the supernatant. Perform the ELISA kit procedure according to the instructions and measure the absorbance (OD value) with a microplate reader to calculate the content of IL-6 and TNF-α in zebrafish.

[0026] 7. Data Statistical Analysis All experiments were independently repeated three times. Data were processed using statistical software. ANOVA and t-tests were used for comparisons between groups. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

[0027] 8. Experimental Results The results of the SDS-induced spin stimulation test in zebrafish are shown in Table 3. Table 3 Results of SDS-induced spin stimulation test in zebrafish Group Number of spins in 30 seconds Blank control group 2.2±0.6 Model group 10.5±1.2### Positive control group 2.3±0.5 Example 1 3.1±0.5 Example 2 2.5±0.3 Example 3 2.8±0.4 Comparative Example 1 6.7±1.1** Comparative Example 2 5.6±0.8** Comparative Example 3 6.2±0.9** Comparative Example 4 5.9±0.7** Comparative Example 5 6.5±1.1** Comparative Example 6 7.5±0.9** Note: * indicates a significant difference between the comparative example and Example 2, P < 0.05; ** indicates P < 0.01; # indicates a significant difference between the model group and the blank group, P < 0.05; ### indicates P < 0.001.

[0028] The results of LPS-induced inflammation test in zebrafish are shown in Table 4; Table 4 Results of LPS-induced inflammation test in zebrafish Group relative area of ​​yolk sac / % Heart rate in 30 seconds ROS relative generation rate / % <![CDATA[IL-6 content / pg·mL -1 > <![CDATA[TNF-α content / pg·mL -1 > Blank control group 100.0 43.3±3.2 100.0 12.6±1.8 10.3±2.5 Model group 142.7 60.5±10.1 336.8 49.8±5.2 42.5±4.8 Positive control group 103.7 44.2±7.5 112.2 17.3±2.1 16.8±2.9 Example 1 107.3 48.5±6.8 136.8 22.5±4.3 18.6±2.1 Example 2 101.2 46.8±4.4 121.6 19.8±3.9 16.2±3.7 Example 3 104.9 46.6±3.6 127.0 21.2±2.7 17.5±2.8 Comparative Example 1 132.2 56.2±5.9** 263.8 41.5±5.6** 35.8±4.2** Comparative Example 2 124.4 53.4±4.7* 231.4 36.2±4.3** 31.5±6.2** Comparative Example 3 128.0 54.7±7.8* 240.5 38.6±3.5** 33.2±4.0** Comparative Example 4 125.6 52.9±7.6* 222.7 35.8±6.2** 30.8±6.8** Comparative Example 5 129.3 55.3±8.9* 246.0 39.2±4.4** 34.1±5.1** Comparative Example 6 131.7 57.1±7.0** 271.9 43.6±7.7** 37.5±6.3** Note: * indicates a significant difference between the comparative example and Example 2, P < 0.05; ** indicates P < 0.01.

[0029] 9. Results Analysis As shown in Table 3, the number of spins in the zebrafish of the model group within 30 seconds was significantly higher than that of the blank control group (P < 0.001), indicating that the skin stimulation model was successfully constructed. The number of spins in the groups of Examples 1-3 were 3.1, 2.5, and 2.8, respectively, which were close to the effect of the positive control group. Among them, Example 2 was significantly lower than that of Comparative Examples 1-6, indicating that the absence of any extract significantly reduced the soothing effect, proving that the synergistic effect between the extracts in the composition of the present invention is the key to achieving efficient soothing. As shown in Table 4, the indicators of Examples 1-3 were close to those of the blank control group and the positive control group, indicating that the composition can effectively inhibit LPS-induced inflammatory response and reduce oxidative stress damage. The inflammatory indicators of Comparative Examples 1-6 were significantly higher than those of Example 2 (P<0.05), further confirming that the synergistic effect of the extract provided by the present invention can significantly enhance the anti-inflammatory effect, and the absence of a single component will lead to a significant decrease in efficacy.

[0030] IV. A cream that balances cortisol and has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. The preparation method of the cream is as follows: Step 1: Place grape seed oil, vitamin E, cetearyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol polyether-20 in a container, heat in a water bath to 75-80℃, and stir and mix evenly at 200-300r / min to obtain mixture A; Step 2: Place deionized water, glycerin, allantoin, and hydroxyethyl cellulose in another container, heat in a water bath to 75-80℃, and stir until homogeneous at 200-300 r / min to obtain mixture B; Step 3: Slowly and evenly pour mixture A into mixture B, turn on the homogenizer and homogenize at 3000-5000 r / min for 13-15 min to form a uniform and fine milky white cream matrix. Step 4: Cool the cream to 40-45℃, add p-hydroxyacetophenone and the compound composition of Example 2 in sequence, stir evenly, add pH adjuster to adjust the pH value to 6-7, cool to room temperature, filter and fill to obtain the cream.

[0031] The dosage of each ingredient in the above cream is shown in Table 5.

[0032] Table 5. Percentage of Cream Raw Materials by Mass Raw material name Cream / % matrix / % Grapeseed oil 8 8 Vitamin E 0.5 0.5 Cetearyl alcohol 2 2 Cetearyl alcohol polyether-20 1.5 1.5 glycerin 4 4 Allantoin 0.1 0.1 Panthenol 0.5 0.5 Hydroxyethyl cellulose 0.2 0.2 Example 2 Compound Composition 1 / p-Hydroxyacetophenone 0.1 0.1 pH adjuster Appropriate amount Appropriate amount Deionized water Add to 100 Add to 100 Note: " / " in the table indicates no addition.

[0033] V. Test on the efficacy of balancing cortisol and stress 1. Experimental Objective The study aimed to evaluate the effects of the cream on cortisol balancing, macrophage function regulation, and inhibition of the inflammatory factor IL-6 in chronically stressed mice, verifying its core efficacy of "balancing cortisol and stress," and clarifying the effects of the compound composition in the cream.

[0034] 2. Materials and Instruments 2.1 Laboratory Animals SPF-grade C57BL / 6J mice, male, 6 weeks old, weighing 22±2g, were purchased from Vital River Laboratory Animal Technology Co., Ltd.; they were housed in an SPF-grade barrier environment (temperature 22±2℃, humidity 50±5%, 12h light-dark cycle) with free access to food and water.

[0035] 2.2 Test Samples and Grouping Test samples: the cream containing the composition of Example 2 prepared above and a blank base; Control sample: Blank group: No treatment, no cream applied; Model group: Stimulated by CUMS, blank matrix (0.5g / animal / day) was applied starting one week before modeling. Prevention group: After CUMS stimulation, cream (0.5g / animal / day) was applied starting one week before modeling. Treatment group: After successful modeling via CUMS stimulation, cream (0.5g / animal / day) was applied. The area covered with the above-mentioned treatment is the hair removal area on the back of the mouse (2×2cm), where the mouse is less likely to lick the back.

[0036] 2.3 Main Reagents and Instruments Reagents: 1.5% sodium pentobarbital, PBS buffer, RIPA lysis buffer, protease inhibitor (PMSF), BCA protein quantification kit, mouse cortisol (CORT) ELISA research kit, mouse interleukin-6 (IL-6) ELISA research kit, FITC-labeled Escherichia coli, etc. Instruments: High-speed refrigerated centrifuge, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) reader, flow cytometer, ultrasonic disruptor, stereo microscope, electronic balance, etc.

[0037] 2.2 Experimental Treatment 2.2.1 CUMS Model Establishment The CUMS model, by constructing a multi-dimensional and dynamically changing composite stressor system, can highly simulate the constantly changing and sudden adverse stress environments that modern humans face in work, family, and other aspects.

[0038] The CUMS model was constructed based on the paper "Polydatin Alleviates Chronic Stress - Induced Depressive and Anxiety-like Behaviors in a Mouse Model," with slight modifications. Unpredictable stress was applied for 21 consecutive days, with one stressor randomly selected daily: ① 24-hour fasting; ② 12-hour water deprivation; ③ overnight lighting; ④ 30-minute forced swimming (25°C); ⑤ 24-hour confined cage rearing; ⑥ 1-hour empty bottle stimulation; ⑦ 24-hour co-existence with a red box.

[0039] 2.2.2 Experimental Period The total cycle was 10 weeks: ① 1 week of adaptation period; ② The prevention group was given cream 1 week in advance; ③ CUMS modeling was performed for 21 days (3 weeks); ④ The treatment group was given cream starting from week 4, and the prevention group was given cream continuously; ⑤ Cream was given throughout the entire process until week 10, after which the mice were sacrificed and tested.

[0040] 2.3 Detection 2.3.1 Detection of IL-6 concentration in brain tissue inflammation After the experiment, mice were anesthetized with 1.5% sodium pentobarbital (0.06 mL per 10 g body weight); the heart was perfused with physiological saline until the liver bled and turned white; brain tissue was dissected and RIPA lysis buffer and PMSF (volume ratio 100:1) were added; the tissue was sonicated (sonicated for 5 s, stopped for 10 s, circulated for 1 min), vortexed for 1 min, and placed on ice for 3 min, repeated 10 times; the brain tissue was centrifuged at 3000 r / min and 4℃ for 10 min, and the supernatant of the homogenate was collected; the total protein concentration was quantified using a BCA kit; the supernatant of the brain tissue homogenate was taken, and the OD value was measured using an ELISA kit according to the instructions, and the IL-6 concentration was calculated.

[0041] 2.3.2 Cortisol Detection Blood was collected from the eyeballs and allowed to stand at room temperature for 30 minutes, then placed at 4°C for 1 hour. The blood was then centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 15 minutes, and the supernatant serum was collected. The absorbance (OD value) of the serum was measured using an ELISA reader in accordance with the instructions of the cortisol ELISA kit, and the serum cortisol concentration was calculated.

[0042] 2.3.3 Macrophage phagocytic rate detection Mice were injected intraperitoneally with 5 mL of PBS buffer, and the abdomen was gently massaged for 1 min. The abdominal skin was cut open to expose the peritoneum, and peritoneal fluid was aspirated into a 15 mL centrifuge tube using a 5 mL syringe. Impurities were filtered through a cell filter, and the cells were centrifuged at 1700 rpm for 5 min. The supernatant was discarded, and the cells were resuspended in 5 mL of PBS. Cells were counted under a microscope, and the cell concentration was adjusted to 6 × 10⁶ cells / mL. 5 1 cell / well was seeded into a 12-well plate; FITC-labeled E. coli was added and incubated at 37°C for 30 min; after rinsing 3 times with PBS, the cells were air-dried, fixed, and then the number of fluorescent positive cells was counted by flow cytometry. Calculate phagocytosis rate: Phagocytosis rate = (Number of fluorescent positive cells / Total number of cells) × 100%.

[0043] 2.4 Test Results The results of the brain tissue inflammatory factor IL-6 concentration test in each group are shown in Table 6; Table 6. Results of IL-6 concentration in mouse brain tissue Group <![CDATA[IL-6 concentration / pg·mg -1 > Blank group 1.79±0.76* Model group 8.61±3.34 Prevention Group 2.29±0.41* Treatment group 2.64±0.62* Note: * indicates a significant difference compared to the model group, P < 0.05.

[0044] The results of serum cortisol concentration tests in each group are shown in Table 7; Table 7 Results of cortisol concentration in mouse serum Group <![CDATA[Cortisol / ng·mL -1 > Blank group 5.20±0.26* Model group 7.14±0.82 Prevention Group 4.75±0.38* Treatment group 4.81±0.45* Note: * indicates a significant difference compared to the model group, P < 0.05.

[0045] The results of macrophage phagocytosis rate tests in each group are shown in Table 8; Table 8. Phagocytic rate of mouse peritoneal macrophages Group Attenuation rate / % Blank group 18.64±2.31* Model group 34.46±5.15 Prevention Group 17.27±3.02* Treatment group 21.83±4.60* Note: * indicates a significant difference compared to the model group, P < 0.05.

[0046] 2.5 Results Analysis Table 7 shows that the serum cortisol concentration in the model group was significantly higher than that in the control group, indicating that the chronic stress model was successfully established; the cortisol concentrations in the prevention and treatment groups were 4.75 ng / mL, respectively. -1 4.81 ng•mL -1 The levels were significantly lower than those in the model group (P < 0.05) and close to those in the blank group, demonstrating that the cream of this invention can effectively balance cortisol imbalance caused by chronic stress, and that both preventive and therapeutic interventions can achieve ideal results.

[0047] IL-6, a pro-inflammatory factor, reduces the level and bioavailability of neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. In a correlational study of animal models of depression, it was found that restraint stress and injection of lipopolysaccharide led to an increase in IL-6 levels, both of which caused depressive-like behaviors in rodents. The concentration of IL-6 in the brain tissue of mice in the model group was significantly increased, while that in the prevention and treatment groups was significantly decreased (P<0.05), with no significant difference from the blank group. This indicates that the cream can alleviate systemic low-grade inflammation caused by chronic stress by inhibiting the release of central and peripheral inflammatory factors, thereby reducing skin inflammatory damage.

[0048] Macrophage activation is a characteristic feature of depression. Under chronic stress, the body's HPA axis dysfunction leads to the release of large amounts of corticosteroids (consistent with the cortisol changes described in this invention), causing the adrenal glands to be overworked and resulting in a large retention of peripheral glucocorticoids, thereby activating macrophages. As shown in Table 8, the phagocytic rate of peritoneal macrophages in the model group mice was significantly higher than that in the control group, suggesting that chronic stress leads to immune dysfunction. The phagocytic rate in both the prevention and treatment groups returned to normal levels (P < 0.05), proving that this cream can regulate immune dysfunction caused by chronic stress, restore the body's normal immune balance, and provide intrinsic protection for skin health.

[0049] VI. Case Studies To verify the comprehensive improvement effect of the composition of the present invention on chronic stress-related skin problems, 10 female volunteers aged 28-45 years were recruited for testing. All participants experienced significant chronic stress (self-rated stress score ≥ 7 out of 10) due to life or work stress (such as full-time childcare, high workplace pressure, long-term care, etc.) and exhibited at least two of the following skin problems: dry and tight skin, decreased skin elasticity, noticeable fine lines, uneven and dull skin tone, and easy itching and redness. All participants used the cream containing the composition of the present invention described in Section IV. After bathing daily, an appropriate amount of the cream described in Section IV (containing the composition of Example 2) was applied to the entire body and gently massaged until absorbed. In addition, manual massage was performed twice a week for four consecutive weeks. The specific massage technique is as follows: ① Push the shoulder muscles: Open your hands with your thumbs and push from the base of your neck to the acromion with your thumbs, repeat 3-5 times; then use your fists to push from the base of your neck to the acromion, repeat 3-5 times.

[0050] ② Push along the Bladder Meridian: Starting from the side of the Dazhui point, use your fingers or fists to push along the Bladder Meridian to the lumbosacral region, repeating 3-5 times.

[0051] ③ Push the scapula: Open your tiger's mouth and push down along the scapula seam with your thumb, repeat 5 times; then use your fist to push the entire scapula surface in a fan shape, focusing on strengthening the Tianzong acupoint, repeat 5 times.

[0052] ④ Push along the rib gaps: Starting from the side of the body, use your thumb to push upwards along the rib gaps (avoiding the spine), repeat 2 times.

[0053] ⑤ Unblock the gallbladder meridian on the side: Push along the gallbladder meridian on the side with your fists and expel toxins to your fingers, repeat 3-5 times; then place both palms on your thoracic spine, pull down in a figure-eight shape and make circles to the sides, soothing the entire back in turn, repeat 2 times.

[0054] ⑥ Unblock the forehead: Use both thumbs to push from the center of the eyebrows (Yintang acupoint) to the Shenting acupoint; then push from the center of the eyebrows to the outer corners of the eyebrows; finally, use the pads of your middle fingers to massage the temples, repeating each step 24 times.

[0055] ⑦ Massage the hairline: With four fingers together, massage the hairline on the front of the head in a circular motion, repeating 10-15 times.

[0056] ⑧ Massage the lymph nodes in the ear: Use the ring and middle fingers of both hands to alternately massage the lymph nodes in front of and behind the ears, strengthening the Jiaosun acupoint.

[0057] ⑨ Lift the lymph nodes under the jaw: Use both hands to alternately lift the lymph nodes under the jaw, strengthen the lymph nodes in front of and behind the ears, and drain toxins to the armpits.

[0058] ⑩ Relax your head: Grasp your scalp firmly with the pads of your five fingers, then release, paying attention to moving your scalp.

[0059] Test Results The forearm skin parameters of the subjects were detected and evaluated using VC20 and CK skin testing instruments (Tewameter, Cutometer, Corneometer, Colormeter probes).

[0060] Table 9 Improvement in objective skin indicators (forearm skin) Testing items Before use After 4 weeks of use Improvement rate Transepidermal water loss rate (TEWL) 7.15 6.17 -13.76% stratum corneum moisture content 21.72 29.29 34.86% Skin elasticity (R2 value) 74.10 79.38 7.12% Skin color ITA value 59.28 61.01 2.91% Skin smoothness (SEsm) 218.68 209.87 -4.03% Skin roughness (SEr) 4.70 3.86 -17.75% Table 10 Supervisor's Perception Evaluation Project estimation Before use After 4 weeks of use Dry / Tight Skin 8.2 2.5 Skin sensitivity / redness / itching 7.6 2.1 Feeling like your skin is "loose". 7.4 2.8 Feeling that "fine lines / wrinkles are obvious" 7.9 3.2 Self-rating of stress level (anxiety / tension) 8.5 3.6 Sleep quality (higher score is better) 3.2 7.5 Overall skin satisfaction 2.5 8.3 Note: Self-evaluation by 10 people, on a scale of 1-10, with higher scores indicating stronger feelings.

[0061] Finally, it should be noted that the above descriptions are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A composition having cortisol-balancing, stress-balancing, and anti-inflammatory soothing effects, characterized in that, The composition contains: peony root extract, gardenia fruit extract, peppermint extract, edamame seed extract, anemarrhena root extract, ginkgo leaf extract and dipeptide-1.

2. The composition according to claim 1, characterized in that, The composition contains, by weight parts, the following components: 20-30 parts of peony root extract, 7-9 parts of gardenia fruit extract, 4-8 parts of peppermint extract, 1-2 parts of grey soybean seed extract, 3-7 parts of anemarrhena root extract, 12-20 parts of ginkgo leaf extract, and 0.02-0.05 parts of dipeptide-1.

3. The use of the composition of claim 1 or 2 in the preparation of products that balance cortisol, balance stress, and / or provide anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.

4. The application according to claim 3, characterized in that, The product is a skincare product; the skincare product is at least one of cream, ointment, liquid, emulsion, and mask.

5. The application according to claim 4, characterized in that, The skincare product is at least one of the following: serum, lotion, cream, and spray.

6. A cream with cortisol-balancing, stress-balancing, and anti-inflammatory soothing properties, characterized in that, The cream contains the composition according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The cream according to claim 6, characterized in that, The composition is added to the cream in an amount of 0.5%-5wt%.

8. The cream according to claim 6, characterized in that, The cream also contains at least one of the following: moisturizer, thickener, emulsifier, preservative, base oil, stabilizer, antioxidant, and solvent.

9. The cream according to claim 8, characterized in that, The moisturizer is at least one of glycerin, allantoin, 1,2-hexanediol, and butylene glycol; The thickener is at least one of hydroxyethyl cellulose, xanthan gum, carbomer, aloe vera gel, and sodium alginate. The emulsifier is at least one of cetearyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol polyether-20; The preservative is at least one of phenoxyethanol, 1,2-hexanediol, and p-hydroxyacetophenone; The base oil is at least one of grapeseed oil, squalane, jojoba seed oil, macadamia seed oil, and camellia seed oil; The stabilizer is sodium chloride; The antioxidant is at least one of vitamin C, vitamin E, and panthenol; The solvent is deionized water.

10. A method for preparing a skin-retaining cream with cortisol-balancing, stress-balancing, and anti-inflammatory soothing properties, characterized in that, The preparation method includes the following steps: Step 1: Place grape seed oil, vitamin E, cetearyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol polyether-20 in a container, heat in a water bath to 75-80℃, and stir and mix evenly at 200-300r / min to obtain mixture A; Step 2: Place deionized water, glycerin, allantoin, and hydroxyethyl cellulose in another container, heat in a water bath to 75-80℃, and stir until homogeneous at 200-300 r / min to obtain mixture B; Step 3: Add mixture A to mixture B and homogenize and disperse at 3000-5000 r / min for 13-15 min to obtain a cream; Step 4: Cool the cream to 40-45°C, add p-hydroxyacetophenone and the composition according to claim 1 or 2 in sequence, stir evenly, add pH adjuster to adjust the pH value to 6-7, cool to room temperature, filter, discharge and fill to obtain the skin-retaining cream.